Treatment benefits
We all need healthcare services. The Treatment benefits program provides coverage for a variety of benefits and services to help you get—and stay—healthy.
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About this program
If you qualify for the Treatment Benefits program, you will receive a VAC healthcare card.
This healthcare card provides coverage for such things as home health or hospital services, nursing services, appointments with specialists (such as physiotherapists, audiologists, and mental health providers), medical equipment, prosthetics, and prescriptions.
The extent of your coverage will depend on a number of factors, including how you qualified, your health needs and your individual circumstances.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have made temporary changes to the Treatment Benefits program to ensure you receive the treatment and services you need. Learn more.
Do I qualify?
You will qualify for healthcare coverage and receive a VAC healthcare card if you qualify for:
- a disability benefit,
- the Veterans Independence Program,
- the War Veterans Allowance, or
- financial assistance from VAC for long-term care.
How to apply
You do not need to apply for the treatment benefits program or for a VAC healthcare card. A card will be sent directly to you after you have received one of the benefits listed above.
If you are a still-serving member of the Canadian Armed Forces or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, you will typically receive your card after you release from service as these benefits will be provided by your home organization, not by VAC.
Get help
If you have questions about your health coverage or about VAC’s treatment benefits program, visit any VAC office or call us at 1-866-522-2122. You can also contact Medavie Blue Cross.
Additional information
Your VAC healthcare card
If you qualify for the Treatment Benefits program, you will receive a VAC healthcare card.
Coverage details
The Treatment Benefits program provides coverage for a variety of benefits and services. Find the details on how that coverage is provided.
Health-related travel
Sometimes you need to travel for healthcare. If you are eligible for the Treatment Benefits program you may qualify to have some or all costs related to this travel covered.
Related programs
Disability benefits - Compensation to recognize that your injury or illness is a result of your service.
Veterans Independence Program - Payments for home and health care services that you need to remain independent at home.
Long-term care - Monthly payments to cover the cost of your long-term care.
War Veterans allowance - Monthly payments if you have a low household income.
Frequently asked questions
FAQs about the contracting process for the next Federal Health Claims Processing Services contract
Veterans Affairs Canada, the Canadian Armed Forces, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police each provide a wide range of health benefits and services to eligible members, Veterans, and other persons. Claims processing and related services are provided through the Federal Health Claims Processing Services (FHCPS) contract currently delivered by Medavie Blue Cross. This contract is expected to end in 2026-27 and work has started on putting the next FHCPS contract in place.
Can I appeal any decision VAC makes about my treatment benefits?
Yes. If you are not satisfied with the decision, you have the right to request a review There are two levels of review.
- First Level Review – The decision letter (or your explanation of benefits document) indicates how to submit a request for a first level review.
- Final Review – The decision letter for your first level review will indicate how to request a final (known as a second level) review.
Does my provider need to call VAC for pre-authorization each year, even if I am requesting the same benefit or service?
For most benefits and services, VAC only requires pre-authorization the first time you obtain a benefit or service. However, certain benefits require pre-authorization each time you request the benefit. The Benefit Grid can help your provider determine which requirements apply to their service.
I am about to release from military service, how do I ensure my health services will continue after my release date?
If you are receiving health benefits from the Canadian Armed Forces and you currently have a VAC disability benefit, you can request a review of your CAF health services to determine which benefits can be covered by VAC after your release. This review will also save you any unnecessary paperwork to continue your benefits. Learn more.
Can I choose any supplier or provider of treatment benefits and services?
You may obtain treatment benefits and services from a supplier or provider of your choice who meets VAC provider requirements. Contact us or Medavie Blue Cross if you have any questions regarding these provider requirements.
Are there policies for this program?
Yes. Read more about the policies for Veterans.